Discover Activities
in the Spanish Basque Country
Activities in the Spanish Basque Country
Bilbao
City Highlights:
- Guggenheim Museum: Iconic modern architecture with contemporary art collections
- Old Town (Casco Viejo): Narrow streets, shops, and pintxos bars
- Zubizuri Bridge & Nervión Riverbanks: Scenic riverside walks
- Mercado de la Ribera: Covered market to explore local products and pintxos
Surroundings:
- Urban Art & Guggenheim: Street art and sculptures throughout the city
- Bizkaia Suspension Bridge (Portugalete): UNESCO World Heritage site
San Sebastián (Donostia)
- La Concha Beach: Iconic city beach, perfect for swimming and seaside walks
- Zurriola Beach: Surf spot suitable for beginners and experienced surfers
- Old Town (Parte Vieja): Pintxos bars and lively atmosphere
- Monte Urgull: Easy hike with panoramic views of the bay and harbor
- Aquarium & Maritime Museum: Explore marine life and naval history
Pasaia (Gipuzkoa)
Main Districts:
- Pasaia San Pedro: Picturesque fishing port with narrow streets and colorful houses
Activities & Visits:
- Port Walks: Observe fishing boats and traditional vessels
- Victor Hugo House (Donibane): Where Victor Hugo stayed and drew inspiration from the port
- Hiking Around Pasaia: Trails on surrounding hills with views of the bay and cliffs
Highlights:
- Perfect to combine nature, heritage, and gastronomy away from crowded cities
- Less touristy than San Sebastián, offering an authentic and peaceful atmosphere
- Strongly linked to fishing and traditional navigation
Hondarribia
- Fortified Old Town: Cobblestone streets and colorful houses
- Castle-Fortress: Panoramic views of the bay and Hendaye on the French side
- Fishing Port: Authentic atmosphere with seafood restaurants
Getaria
- Coastal Village: White houses with colorful shutters
- Balenciaga Museum: Fashion and heritage; birthplace of the haute couture designer
- Beaches & Port: Seafood tasting and scenic walks along the waterfront
Guernica
- Tree of Guernica: Historic and political symbol of the Basque Country
- Peace and History Museum: Explore the history of the town and of Spain
Nature & Outdoor Activities
Hiking:
- Urkiola Natural Park: Mountains, forests, and scenic trails
- Aiako Harria Mountains: Trails with spectacular views of the coast and valleys
Cycling & Mountain Biking:
- Bike paths along the coast and in inland mountain areas
Paragliding & Adventure Sports:
- Mountains around San Sebastián and Gipuzkoa for paragliding, climbing, and adventure activities
Culture & Traditions
Festivals & Events:
- Semana Grande in Bilbao and San Sebastián: Traditional Basque celebrations with music, dance, and costumes
Museums & Heritage:
- Guggenheim Museum (Bilbao) – Contemporary art
- Balenciaga Museum (Getaria) – Fashion and heritage
- Local Museums in Vitoria-Gasteiz – City history, Basque art, and traditions
Crafts & Artisan Products:
- Traditional espadrilles, ceramics, and regional specialties
Gastronomy & Markets
Local Products:
- Pintxos: Traditional Basque tapas
- Bacalao: Salted cod dishes
- Marmitako: Tuna stew
- Idiazabal cheese
- Basque wines and cider: Visit traditional cider houses (sidrerías)
Markets:
- Mercado de la Ribera (Bilbao)
- San Martín Market (Vitoria-Gasteiz)
- Fresh produce markets in San Sebastián and Getaria
Why not set off on an adventure
from Les Pins Bleus***
